Last week, in the violence that was Baltimore, a feisty, single mother-of-six caught the attention of the nation.  Ignoring the risks of being out among the chaos, she recognized her only son involved in the rioting, and proceeded to chase him down and drag him home. It wasn’t neat, and it wasn’t pretty, but her actions grabbed at the heart of every mother watching it play out on television.

Why? Because in spite of the danger, in spite of what others would think, in spite of knowing her son wouldn’t like it…this mother fought for her child.

In an interview, she said, “Is he a perfect boy? No, he’s not, but he’s mine.”

This week, as we prepare to honor our moms, I would like to add my voice in heralding those who sacrifice so much for their families. For the women who jump into the fray and do what it takes to raise the ones God entrusted to them. For those who take a stand in their children’s school and athletic activities by remembering the Sabbath and keeping it holy. For the moms who teach basic manners and respect for others.

For the moms who are exhausted from giving all day, but refuse to lower the godly standards expected of their children. For the moms who hold their offspring accountable for wrongdoing while also demonstrating forgiveness and unconditional love.  For the moms who take up the fight each and every day for the lives of those God gave them.

I am personally thankful for the gift of a godly mother. Mom encouraged us to use our imaginations and to be willing to try new things. Idleness was never an option—if our hands were empty, she would fill them with a book or a broom. Always. (Probably where I get my love of reading, and my dislike of sweeping.)

Mom taught a missions lifestyle when she dressed up my sister and me as little circus clowns and took us to the nursing home. Sharing the Gospel was real, genuine, and a natural part of living for Christ.

As I grew into a teen, my mother and I rarely saw eye to eye, but I knew without a doubt that she would fight for me. Without reservation.

Her children are grown and have families of their own, but Mom is still fighting—through the power of her prayers. My siblings and I know that our mother regularly approaches the Throne of Grace on our behalf.

Moms, we are living a sacred calling, and we are in the fight of our lives. Satan wants our children and he has brought the battle to us.

Whether stepping out into the chaos and yanking our children home, or hitting our knees in spiritual warfare, we serve a mighty God and He never leaves us to fight alone.

If you listen with your heart, you can hear Him…

Is she a perfect mom? No, she’s not, but she’s Mine.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Cor. 12:9 NIV)

Discipline your children, and they will give you peace of mind and will make your heart glad. (Prov. 29:17 NLT)